MA Shakespeare Studies

Postgraduate Entry Requirements

Academic Qualifications: Applicants should have successfully completed a bachelor's degree or its equivalent from a recognized institution with a minimum overall score of 65% or equivalent.

English language proficiency:

• IELTS: A minimum overall score of 7.0 with no individual component below 6.5.
• TOEFL: A minimum overall score of 100.
• PTE Academic: A minimum overall score of 76.
• Some postgraduate programs may have specific subject prerequisites or additional requirements.

King’s College London is providing financial support to international students who demonstrate academic excellence and financial need. The university offers a variety of scholarships specifically designed to assist international students in covering tuition fees and living costs while studying in the United Kingdom. These scholarships help make higher education more accessible to students from diverse backgrounds and regions.

King’s College London International Postgraduate Scholarships: King’s College London offers a range of scholarships for international postgraduate students. These scholarships are available for students applying to specific master’s programs and are designed to recognize academic achievement and potential. The scholarships vary in value, with some covering partial tuition fees and others offering full financial support. International students who have a strong academic record and potential for research excellence are eligible for consideration.

Commonwealth Scholarships: King’s College London is part of the Commonwealth Scholarship Commission, which offers scholarships to students from Commonwealth countries. These scholarships cover tuition fees, airfare, and living expenses for international students pursuing postgraduate studies in the UK. They are awarded based on academic excellence and the potential to contribute to the development of the student's home country after completing their studies.

Chevening Scholarships: The Chevening Scholarship is a UK government-funded initiative that provides full financial support for postgraduate students from eligible countries. King’s College London is a participating university for Chevening Scholars, who are selected based on academic merit, leadership potential, and the ability to contribute to their communities. Chevening Scholarships cover tuition fees, travel costs, and a living stipend.

Dean’s Scholarships for International Students: Many departments at King’s College London offer Dean’s Scholarships for international students applying to specific programs. These scholarships are awarded based on academic merit and the student’s potential contribution to their field of study. They may provide partial or full funding for tuition fees and are typically available for high-achieving students who have an excellent academic record.

Country-Specific Scholarships: King’s College London offers country-specific scholarships for international students from specific regions or countries. These scholarships are designed to support students who demonstrate outstanding academic achievement and who are making a positive impact in their home country. Each scholarship may have its own eligibility criteria, including academic qualifications, nationality, and financial need.

Graduates of the MA Shakespeare Studies program at King’s College London can pursue a variety of rewarding career paths in academia, the arts, publishing, and more. The program equips students with the skills needed for roles that combine literary analysis, performance, teaching, and cultural management.

Academia and Teaching: Graduates can pursue careers in higher education, teaching English literature, theatre studies, or Shakespearean drama at universities and colleges. Many go on to complete PhD programs, specializing in various aspects of Shakespeare’s works, critical theory, or early modern drama. Teaching positions in secondary schools and language institutions are also common for those interested in shaping the next generation’s understanding of Shakespeare.

Theatre and Performance: With a deep understanding of Shakespeare’s plays, graduates can work in the theatre industry in a variety of roles. These may include positions such as dramaturgs, theatre directors, or performance scholars. Many graduates work with professional companies, such as Shakespeare’s Globe Theatre, where they contribute to productions, research, and educational initiatives related to Shakespeare’s works. Some graduates also become involved in adapting Shakespeare’s works for modern or international audiences.

Publishing and Editing: The skills developed in the MA Shakespeare Studies program are highly transferable to careers in publishing, particularly within literary and academic publishing. Graduates can work as editors, literary agents, or researchers, focusing on publishing works related to Shakespeare or early modern literature. Additionally, those with a passion for editing can contribute to critical editions of Shakespeare’s plays, furthering the study of his works.

Arts and Cultural Management: Graduates with an interest in arts administration can pursue roles in cultural institutions, museums, and literary festivals. Positions include arts managers, curators, or event coordinators, working on exhibitions, performances, and educational programs that promote Shakespeare’s works and early modern literature. Many graduates work in organizations such as the British Library, the Royal Shakespeare Company, or arts councils.

Media and Journalism: Graduates of the MA Shakespeare Studies program can also find opportunities in media and journalism, where their expertise in Shakespeare and literary analysis can be applied to writing and reviewing for publications, blogs, and broadcasting networks. They can work as cultural critics, literary journalists, or content creators, focusing on the legacy of Shakespeare in modern society, adaptations, and performance reviews.

Creative Writing and Scriptwriting: Graduates interested in writing can pursue careers as creative writers or scriptwriters. Drawing on their expertise in Shakespearean drama, they may work in television, film, or theatre, adapting Shakespeare’s works or creating original scripts inspired by his themes. The program’s focus on language and performance prepares graduates for roles in creative industries where storytelling and narrative structure are essential.

Public History and Heritage: The field of public history offers another career path for graduates, particularly those interested in preserving and promoting the cultural heritage of Shakespeare. Graduates can work in heritage organizations, historical sites, or museums, where they contribute to educational programs, exhibitions, and historical research. They may also take on roles such as heritage interpreters or historical consultants for films, documentaries, or media projects related to Shakespeare.

Government and Policy Roles: Graduates can also pursue careers in government, particularly in departments or organizations that focus on arts and culture policy. Positions include cultural advisors, policy researchers, or advocacy roles in promoting the importance of Shakespeare in national and international cultural agendas.

Public Speaking and Lecturing: For graduates with strong public speaking skills, lecturing, conducting workshops, or leading public seminars on Shakespeare’s works is another potential career option. Graduates can deliver talks at literary festivals, university events, or community outreach programs, educating the public on Shakespeare’s continuing relevance and cultural impact.

Consultancy and Advisory Roles: Some graduates of the MA Shakespeare Studies program take on consultancy roles, offering expertise to organizations, universities, and cultural institutions on matters related to Shakespeare’s works. These roles often involve advising on academic programs, curriculum design, or creating educational materials for the arts and humanities sectors.